THIS IS WHAT 50 LOOKS LIKE

KENDAL PARMAR has five children, aged ten to 19. She runs a coaching business.

MIDLIFE CYCLING

I LEARNED to cycle at 40. I never did it as a child, then found myself trying to teach my own kids and thought: ‘This is ridiculous!’ So, I did a three-hour training course with a local borough. At first, my legs burned. Now I cycle everywhere, usually for two hours a day. It’s an amazing workout. I love being outdoors. It’s my reflection time: a break from busy work and family life, where I can problem-solve.

FEMALE FRIENDSHIP

IT’S important to maintain a strong support network. I split from my partner a few years ago. It was so difficult. There were days when I didn’t think I could keep going. But my friends were my armour. We video call each other regularly. I couldn’t have got through it without them. So, I celebrated my 50th with a ‘fantastic women’ party. I went as Wonder Woman!

BE YOUR OWN BOSS

THROUGHOUT my career, I’ve often felt like a really good number two; never number one. Then, in 2014, I set up my own business. It’s an app-based coaching service, which uses artificial intelligence to bring out the best in people. I’ve found it so empowering. I’ve proven to myself that I can do it, which has given me such a sense of achievement. At 50, I couldn’t feel more ambitious, energetic and alive.

MAGIC EYE BAG FIX

IT’S harder as you get older: you can’t get away with as much! Recently, I’ve started getting dark circles under my eyes. My friend gave me an amazing fix for this: Becca Under Eye Brightening Corrector (€24, spacenk.com). It helps to brighten the area, so you look more healthy and awake. I feel so much better when I look in the mirror.

BUDGET BEAUTY OILS

IT’S not always worth splashing out on luxury beauty products. I love natural oils: they’re super hydrating and great value. Every night, I apply coconut oil to my hair — it makes it silky soft when I wake up. I also use almond oil instead of a moisturiser: the consistency is much lighter than a cream.